12 Churches in the Netherlands Worth Your Visit: Peaceful Pilgrimages

Churches in the Netherlands are among Europe’s most beautiful and historically significant. From medieval masterpieces to hidden attic chapels, these Dutch religious buildings tell fascinating stories of faith, art, and resilience.

The churches in the country range from medieval Gothic masterpieces to hidden worship spaces tucked inside ordinary canal houses. Many now serve double duty as both active places of worship and cultural landmarks open to tourists. Here’s what we will cover in the article:

12 Best Churches in the Netherlands to Visit

1. Oude Kerk (Old Church), Amsterdam

The Oude Kerk stands as Amsterdam’s oldest building and the city’s first parish church. Dating back to 1213, this grand Gothic structure began as a wooden chapel before growing into the impressive stone church you see today.

Walking through its doors means stepping into nearly 800 years of Amsterdam’s history.

Type: Protestant (originally Catholic)
Location: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (25-30 minutes by taxi or train)
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Mass Timing: No regular Catholic Mass; occasionally hosts Protestant services and concerts
Contact Number: +31 20 625 8284
Website:https://oudekerk.nl/
Highlights: Amsterdam’s oldest building (founded c. 1213); beautiful wooden vaulted ceiling from the 1390s; burial site of Rembrandt’s wife, Saskia; contemporary art installations and exhibitions; 2,500-pipe organ dating from 1724

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds; check for special art events
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ramps
Visitor Tips: Located in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, so be prepared for the surroundings; the church often hosts contemporary art exhibitions alongside its historical elements; quiet corners provide peaceful spots away from Amsterdam’s busy streets; look down at the floor – you’re walking on gravestones with fascinating inscriptions; photography is permitted but be respectful during services or quiet moments

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2. Westerkerk, Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

The Westerkerk stands tall along Amsterdam’s Prinsengracht canal, its distinctive blue crown and soaring Renaissance tower making it easy to spot from many parts of the city.

This famous church in the Netherlands holds special significance for many reasons – Rembrandt was buried here (in an unmarked grave), and Anne Frank mentioned hearing its bells from her nearby hiding place during World War II.

Type: Protestant (Dutch Reformed)
Location: Prinsengracht 281, 1016 GW Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 17 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (20-30 minutes by taxi)
Timings: Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (April to September), limited hours in winter
Mass Timing: Sunday service at 10:30 AM
Contact Number: +31 20 624 7766
Website:https://westerkerk.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Tallest church tower in Amsterdam (85 meters); burial site of Rembrandt (in an unmarked grave); beautiful pipe organ from 1686; mentioned in Anne Frank’s diary (she could hear its bells from her hiding place); classic example of Renaissance architecture in the Netherlands

Best Time to Visit: Summer months when tower climbs are available
Accessibility: The main church is accessible; the tower climb involves narrow stairs
Visitor Tips: Tower climbs cost €9 (approximately Rs. 800) and often sell out quickly; the church is a 2-minute walk from the Anne Frank House – combine both visits; during summer, book tower climb tickets online to avoid disappointment; listen for the carillon (bell concert) that plays every Tuesday at noon; services are conducted in Dutch but visitors are welcome

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3. Zuiderkerk, Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

The Zuiderkerk holds special significance as the first church built specifically for Protestant worship in Amsterdam. Completed in 1611, its elegant tower and bright interior exemplify early Protestant church design.

Though no longer used for regular worship, this architectural gem hosts exhibitions and cultural events.

Type: Protestant
Location: Zuiderkerkhof 72, 1011 WB Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Opening hours vary based on exhibitions (not always open to the public)
Mass Timing: No regular services; used primarily for cultural events
Contact Number: +31 20 308 0399
Website:https://zuiderkerkamsterdam.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: First purpose-built Protestant church in Amsterdam; featured in paintings by Claude Monet and Willem Witsen; beautiful 17th-century pipe organ; elegant Renaissance architecture with a distinctive tower; former burial site of Rembrandt’s children

Best Time to Visit: When hosting exhibitions or during Open Monument Days (the second weekend of September)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance
Visitor Tips: Check the website before visiting as it’s not consistently open to the public; the tower occasionally opens for guided climbs (check the schedule); located in a quieter part of central Amsterdam, making it less crowded; the surrounding area offers lovely canal views for photographs; nearby cafés provide perfect spots for reflection after your visit

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4. Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

Despite its name meaning “New Church,” this grand Gothic basilica dates back to the early 15th century and stands prominently on Dam Square next to the Royal Palace.

As one of the most important historic churches in the Netherlands, the Nieuwe Kerk hosts royal ceremonies, including coronations and weddings, along with major cultural exhibitions.

Type: Protestant (now primarily used for exhibitions and ceremonies)
Location: Dam Square, 1012 NL Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: Approximately 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM during exhibitions
Mass Timing: No regular religious services; used for special events and royal ceremonies
Contact Number: +31 20 626 8168
Website:https://www.nieuwekerk.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Site of Dutch royal inaugurations, including King Willem-Alexander in 2013; stunning Gothic architecture with impressive stained glass; houses the ornate brass choir screen from 1648; monumental pipe organ dating from 1655; hosts major cultural exhibitions throughout the year

Best Time to Visit: During major exhibitions; check the website for current offerings
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Visitor Tips: Located on Dam Square, Amsterdam’s central plaza; admission fees vary depending on the exhibition (typically €15-20, or Rs. 1,300-1,800); audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English; the church isn’t always open between exhibitions; photography policies vary by exhibition – check at the entrance

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5. Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic), Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

Perhaps the most unusual of all worship places for Christians in the Netherlands, this hidden church tucked into the attic of an ordinary-looking canal house reveals a fascinating chapter in Dutch religious history.

Created during the 1660s when Catholic worship was officially prohibited but privately tolerated, this secret church is now a museum showcasing religious freedom.

Type: Catholic (hidden church museum)
Location: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38, 1012 GD Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mass Timing: Occasional Catholic Masses (check website for schedule)
Contact Number: +31 20 624 6604
Website:https://opsolder.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Complete 17th-century church hidden across three attic floors; original altar, pulpit, confessional, and organ; excellent museum showcasing religious tolerance in Dutch history; furnished rooms showing how the home’s owners lived; one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most well-preserved museums (since 1888)

Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
Accessibility: Limited – historic building with many stairs
Visitor Tips: Audio guides available in multiple languages, including English; not suitable for visitors with mobility issues (many steep, narrow stairs); tickets cost €14 (approximately Rs. 1,250) – book online to avoid queues; allow 1-1.5 hours for a thorough visit; photography without flash is permitted

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6. English Reformed Church, Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

Tucked away in the tranquil Begijnhof courtyard, this English-speaking church provides a peaceful retreat from Amsterdam’s busy center.

For Indian tourists who prefer English services, this historic Christian church in the Netherlands offers both spiritual and cultural connections in a beautiful setting.

Type: Protestant (Reformed)
Location: Begijnhof 48, 1012 WV Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Limited visiting hours; primarily open before and after Sunday services
Mass Timing: Sunday service at 10:30 AM (in English)
Contact Number: +31 20 672 2288
Website: https://www.erc.amsterdam/
Email: [email protected]
Highlights: Located in the beautiful medieval Begijnhof courtyard; wooden pulpit dating from 1607; historic English-language Pilgrim church; continues as an active church for the international community; beautiful stained glass windows

Best Time to Visit: Sunday mornings for services; afternoons to see the interior
Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to historic setting
Visitor Tips: The Begijnhof courtyard is a must-see even if the church is closed; respectful behavior is expected as this is both a church and a residential area; services welcome visitors of all backgrounds; check the website for special events like evensong and concerts; combine with a visit to the nearby Amsterdam Museum

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7. Moses & Aaron Church (Mozes en Aäronkerk), Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

With its impressive neoclassical façade facing Waterlooplein, the Moses & Aaron Church stands as one of Amsterdam’s most striking Catholic churches in the Netherlands. This 19th-century building remains an active parish church while also hosting cultural events.

Type: Catholic
Location: Waterlooplein 207, 1011 PG Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Tuesday to Saturday: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (when not used for services)
Mass Timing: Sunday Mass at 11:00 AM
Contact Number: +31 20 233 1522
Website:https://mozesenaaronkerk.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Imposing neoclassical façade with statues of Moses and Aaron; rich interior with a beautiful altar and organ; active parish serving Amsterdam’s Catholic community; regular concerts and cultural events; located near the Jewish Cultural Quarter

Best Time to Visit: Afternoon opening hours; Sunday for Mass
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Visitor Tips: Free entry (donations appreciated); located near Waterlooplein market – combine both visits; check the website for the concert schedule – the church has excellent acoustics; photography allowed outside service times; quiet space for reflection in a busy part of Amsterdam

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8. Church of St. Peter & St. Paul (De Papegaai), Amsterdam

Source: wikimedia

Hidden behind an unassuming façade on Amsterdam’s busiest shopping street lies De Papegaai (The Parrot), a secret church with a colorful history. This active Catholic church in the Netherlands offers a peaceful retreat from the commercial bustle just outside.

Type: Catholic
Location: Kalverstraat 58, 1012 PG Amsterdam
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 20 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Daily 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Mass Timing: Multiple daily Masses; check schedule
Contact Number: +31 20 623 1889
Website:https://www.nicolaas-parochie.nl/papegaai/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Hidden church on Amsterdam’s main shopping street; beautiful neo-Gothic interior from 1848; named after “The Parrot” tavern that once stood on this site; active parish with regular Masses; peaceful sanctuary amid Amsterdam’s bustling center

Best Time to Visit: Mornings for quiet reflection
Accessibility: Limited due to narrow entrance
Visitor Tips: Look for the small parrot sign above the entrance; one of the few places offering daily Mass in central Amsterdam; English Mass available on Sundays at 5:15 PM; photography is permitted outside service times; free entry (donations appreciated)

9. Nieuwe Kerk, Delft

Source: wikimedia

Beyond Amsterdam, the Nieuwe Kerk in Delft ranks among the most significant historic churches in the Netherlands due to its connection to the Dutch royal family.

The church’s soaring tower dominates Delft’s skyline, while inside, the royal burial vault contains centuries of Dutch history.

Type: Protestant
Location: Markt 80, 2611 GW Delft
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 10 km from Rotterdam The Hague Airport
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (April to October); reduced hours in winter
Mass Timing: Sunday service at 10:00 AM
Contact Number: +31 15 212 3025
Website:https://www.oudeennieuwekerkdelft.nl/
Highlights: Burial site of William of Orange and the Dutch royal family; the second-tallest church tower in the Netherlands (108.75 meters); magnificent stained glass windows; impressive pipe organ from 1839; beautiful Gothic architecture dating from the 14th century

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for tower access
Accessibility: Main church accessible; tower climb not suitable for those with mobility limitations
Visitor Tips: Combined ticket available with Oude Kerk Delft (€10/Rs. 900); tower climb costs €5 (Rs. 450) but offers spectacular views; located on Delft’s beautiful Market Square; check the weather forecast before the tower climb (closes in bad weather); visit on Thursday for Delft’s market day around the church

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10. Domkerk (St. Martin’s Cathedral), Utrecht

Source: wikimedia

The impressive Domkerk stands as one of the most important Christian churches in the Netherlands, both historically and architecturally.

Though no longer physically connected to its famous tower (separated by a collapse in 1674), this Gothic masterpiece remains central to Utrecht’s identity and skyline.

Type: Protestant (formerly Catholic)
Location: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 50 km from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Timings: Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Sunday: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Mass Timing: Sunday service at 10:30 AM
Contact Number: +31 30 231 0403
Website:https://domkerk.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Impressive Gothic cathedral dating from 1254; beautiful cloister garden; the nave collapsed in a 1674 storm, creating the unique open square between the church and the tower; 112.5-meter Domtoren (cathedral tower) – the Netherlands’ tallest; remarkable stained glass and interior architecture

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Visitor Tips: Domtoren visits require a separate ticket and guided tour; Saturday organ concerts at 3:30 PM (free with admission); special evening opening hours during the summer months; the DOMunder archaeological site beneath the square is worth visiting; the church sits in Utrecht’s beautiful medieval center

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11. Grote Kerk (Great Church), Breda

Source: wikimedia

Breda’s Grote Kerk ranks among the most impressive must-visit churches in the Netherlands with its soaring Gothic architecture and royal connections. This church houses the mausoleums of several ancestors of the Dutch royal family.

Type: Protestant
Location: Kerkplein 2, 4811 XT Breda
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 55 km from Eindhoven Airport
Timings: Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mass Timing:No regular services; occasional special services
Contact Number: +31 76 521 8267
Website:https://www.grotekerkbreda.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: Brabantine Gothic architecture dating from the 15th to the 16th centuries; impressive funerary monuments of the Nassau family; beautiful Renaissance choir stalls; tower with panoramic views of Breda; regular organ concerts and cultural events

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer months
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Visitor Tips: Admission fee is €5 (approximately Rs. 450); audio guides available in multiple languages; located in Breda’s charming historic center; excellent acoustics make concerts here special; visit on market days (Tuesday and Friday) for a lively atmosphere

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12. St. John’s Cathedral (Sint-Janskathedraal), ‘s-Hertogenbosch

Source: wikimedia

St. John’s Cathedral stands as the crowning jewel among Catholic churches in the Netherlands, renowned for its extraordinary Gothic architecture and fascinating sculptural details. This magnificent building took nearly three centuries to complete (1220-1530).

Type: Catholic
Location: Torenstraat 16, 5211 KK ‘s-Hertogenbosch
Distance from Nearest Airport: About 35 km from Eindhoven Airport
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Mass Timing: Daily Mass at 12:30 PM; Sunday Masses at 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM
Website:https://www.sint-jan.nl/
Email:[email protected]
Highlights: The largest and most ornate Gothic cathedral in the Netherlands; famous for 96 distinctive exterior sculptures, including peculiar figures and “angels with phones”; beautiful stained glass windows from various periods; impressive Baroque organ from 1620; active cathedral with regular services

Best Time to Visit: Spring for fewer crowds and good light for photography
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Visitor Tips: Tower climb available with guided tours; guided tours in English available (book in advance); “Angels’ Tours” focus on the unique exterior sculptures; located in the charming city of ‘s-Hertogenbosch (locally called “Den Bosch”); combine with a boat tour of the Binnendieze (the city’s medieval canal system)

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FAQs

How many churches are in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands has around 2,300 active churches and over 1,000 former ones now repurposed. Many Dutch cities feature multiple historic churches in the Netherlands, and nearly every village has at least one.

Can Christians pray in public in the Netherlands?

Yes, Christians can freely pray in public in the Netherlands. The country upholds strong religious freedom laws. Public prayer is generally respected, though Dutch culture tends to be private about religious expression.

Can Christians get married in the Netherlands?

Yes, Christians can marry in churches in the Netherlands, but Dutch law requires a civil ceremony at a town hall first. Religious ceremonies can follow in any church willing to host the couple.

What are the 4 largest churches in the Netherlands?

The four largest churches in the Netherlands are St. John’s Cathedral, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the Grote Kerk churches in Dordrecht and Breda—impressive Gothic landmarks showcasing the grandeur of Dutch religious architecture.

Are there any Catholics in the Netherlands?

Yes, about 20–22% of the Dutch population is Catholic, making it the largest Christian group. Most Catholic churches in the Netherlands are located in the southern provinces of Noord-Brabant and Limburg.

Can tourists attend church services in the Netherlands?

Yes, tourists can attend services at most churches in the Netherlands. Respectful attire and behavior are expected. Some historic churches offer English services or translations to accommodate international visitors.

Do I need permission to visit a church in the Netherlands?

Most major churches in the Netherlands allow visitors during open hours without permission, though some charge entry fees. Active parish churches may limit access during services, and photography rules vary by location.

Is there parking available at churches in the Netherlands?

Parking at churches in the Netherlands varies. City churches rarely have dedicated parking—public garages are common. Rural and village churches often have small lots. Public transport offers easy access to most major churches.